Wisdom Tooth Removal: When Is It Necessary & What to Expect?

Wisdom teeth (third molars) usually attempt to emerge between ages 17 and 25. Because human jaws have evolved to be smaller, there is frequently not enough room for them to erupt upright. As a result, wisdom teeth often remain 'impacted'—stuck horizontally under bone or partially covered by gum tissue.

Signs Your Wisdom Tooth Needs Extraction

• Pericoronitis: Painful, swollen gum flap over a partially erupted lower wisdom tooth that traps food particles and gets infected repeatedly.
• Damage to Second Molars: Horizontal wisdom teeth pushing against the roots of adjacent healthy molars, causing decay or bone craters.
• Difficulty Opening Mouth (Trismus): Muscle spasms and jaw stiffness radiating to the ear and temple.
• Cyst Formation: Fluid-filled sacs around impacted crowns that can hollow out surrounding jawbone.

What to Expect During the Procedure at SLVR Dental

Under profound local anesthesia administered by Dr. Vishnu Kumar, the surgical area is completely numbed. A gentle incision is made and the tooth is sectioned into smaller pieces to allow easy, low-pressure removal. Dissolvable sutures close the site, and the entire extraction typically takes under 30 minutes.

Essential Post-Operative Aftercare

• Keep firm pressure on the gauze pad for 45 minutes to form a stable blood clot.
• Do NOT spit, use a straw, or smoke for 48 hours to avoid dislodging the clot ('dry socket').
• Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off during the first 24 hours.
• Eat soft, cool foods such as yogurt, curd rice, and smoothies.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Vishnu Kumar (BDS, MDS)

Chief Specialist Dentist & Implantologist at SLVR Dental and Cosmetic Care. Over a decade of specialized clinical experience in root canals, titanium dental implants, and clear aligners in Tirupati, AP.